The Third Round · Theme
Revenge and Justice
How The Third Round develops Revenge and Justice.
Drummond's pursuit of Peterson is framed as a personal duel for justice, while Robinson's elaborate scheme is driven by a twenty-year thirst for revenge, suggesting that justice is often indistinguishable from vengeance.
Where it surfaces
- In Which Drummond Plays a Little Game of Trains
Robinson's personal vendetta against Drummond takes precedence over practical concerns, as he insists on keeping him alive to savor his revenge.
- IX: In Which Professor Goodman Has a Trying Time
Robinson's entire scheme is driven by a twenty-year desire for revenge against Peterson, which he considers an 'artistic revenge'.
- X: In Which Drummond Goes on Board the S.Y. Gadfly
Robinson's personal vendetta against Drummond drives his decisions, promising Freyder a chance to harm him and reserving the final blow for himself.
- XII: In Which He Samples Mr. Blackton’s Napoleon Brandy
Drummond seeks a personal form of justice, wanting a final duel that appeals to his sense of fair play. He also threatens Blantyre with legal consequences, showing a dual path of revenge and formal justice.